18.10. Leaving the Password Out of the Configuration File

Problem

You don't want to leave your dial-up account password in the WvDial configuration file because it is stored in plaintext.

Solution

Add the AskPassword = yes option to your WvDial configuration file, like this:

	[Dialer Defaults]
	Modem = /dev/ttyS3
	Baud = 115200
	Init1 = ATZ
	Init2 = ATQ0 V1 E1 &C1 &D2 +FCLASS=0
	ISDN = 0
	Modem Type = Analog Modem
	Dial Attempts = 10

	[Dialer ISP1]
	Stupid Mode = on
	Phone = 1234567	
	Username = alrac
	Ask Password = yes
	Idle Seconds = 600

Then, you'll be prompted for your password during login.

Discussion

This is not suitable for a dial-up server, unless you enjoy scampering to the server and entering a password every time someone needs to go online. It adds a bit of protection for users who do not have control over who uses their computers.

See Also